Bacary Sagna Ranks Kylian Mbappe Among Top Three, Backs Khvicha Kvaratskhelia for 2026 Ballon d’Or

Ex-France international Bacary Sagna recently told GOAL that Kylian Mbappe ranks only within the "top three" players globally right now. Despite Mbappe's status as a superstar at Real Madrid and France, Sagna does not expect him to claim the Ballon d’Or in 2026.

Sagna also dismissed Harry Kane of Bayern Munich when asked about favorites for the award, naming another player as his pick instead.

Leading Contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or

The player considered the planet’s best often comes from the team lifting the World Cup in a given year. Spain's victory in North America this summer has put some of their stars in the spotlight. The reigning Ballon d’Or winner from 2024, Rodri, along with new Barcelona teammate Lamine Yamal, are among those eyeing the prize.

Harry Kane scored an impressive 61 goals last season but did not win the Champions League in 2026. Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain secured back-to-back Champions League titles, which could boost chances for their star players like Ousmane Dembele or other talented teammates.

Sagna Favors Khvicha Kvaratskhelia for Golden Ball

“For me the best at the minute, he is in the top three. He had an amazing year and he is for me one of the best. But being a striker gives more chances to score, so more chances for the people to look at him favourably.”

“For me, Kvara deserves the Ballon d’Or. For me, Kvara [Khvicha Kvaratskhelia] has been phenomenal and being a winger and having such an impact and successful campaign. Apart from winning the Champions League, I think football players will agree that Kvara was the most important player last season.”

Sagna praised Mbappe’s World Cup performance and early season form but emphasized impact on the team over individual accolades. He noted that Mbappe might be the best player worldwide, yet questioned how decisive his contribution was last season.

Will Mbappe Ever Win the Ballon d’Or?

Real Madrid have gone two seasons without major trophies despite Mbappe's personal success, including two La Liga Golden Boots and 90 goals in 106 games.

Another former French star, Louis Saha, told GOAL that Mbappe understands winning the Champions League is key to securing the Ballon d’Or. Saha mentioned the pressure on Mbappe after missing finals with top clubs and suggested Mbappe’s journey still faces challenges.

“It’s starting to question a little bit on the personal side. Let’s say on the spiritual side, he seems to be a black cat in a way. So that’s the bad line that he wants to rectify as quickly as possible.”

“I think he deserves it. Regardless of people criticising his style of play, he wants to have everything.”

Saha compared Mbappe’s situation to legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, noting that even greats face criticism if trophies don’t come.

Mbappe’s Record-Breaking Achievements

• All-time leading scorer in World Cup history (2026).
• Holds the same record for the French national team.
• Top scorer for PSG in Ligue 1.
• Already recorded a hat-trick for Real Madrid against Real Sociedad this season.

Jose Mourinho aims to bring trophies back to Real Madrid, hoping to put Mbappe in strong contention for the Ballon d’Or once again.